Jamaica’s animal welfare programmes are set to receive a significant boost through the efforts of the Animal Welfare Advocacy Group (AWAG) a not-for-profit membership organization.

AWAG which was launched recently at the Hope Zoo’s Serengeti facility saw a gathering of a wide range of players in the animal health and welfare community. Dr

Blossom O’Meally-Nelson, founder of the organization, gave the inaugural address, and guest speaker Dr. Kevin Walker represented Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining Floyd Green. 

Dr Walker lauded AWAG for convening key players such as the JSPCA, the Racing Commission, the Jamaica Veterinary Medicine Association. Jamaica Equine Veterinary Association, Montego Bay Animal Haven, Hope Zoo and a number of private animal welfare defenders to form a critical mass that speaks with one voice to the public and Government agencies regarding legal reform, public education, enforcement and community action. 

AWAG is an umbrella organization with a strong executive committee and sub-committees related to the different areas of expertise. Executive Committee Members include Dr Paul Cadogan, Dr Sarah Eytle, Dr Sophia Ramlal, Dr Barbara Carby, Dr Bri Schwapp, Pamela Lawson, Cindi Scholefeld, Jessica Munitz, Marie Baillie, Dr Audrie McNab.

AWAG which was convened in 2022 has already had an impact in the animal welfare community. It has submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture proposed amendments to the Animal Cruelty Act which is now under review. It is initiating a programme of public education bringing together the Ministry of Agriculture and the JIS. A plan is now in place to work with the Jamaica Constabulary Force and the Police Training College to strengthen knowledge and skills related to animal welfare and the enforcement of animal laws.

The aim of AWAG is not to compete with existing organizations or to replicate prorammes but to enhance existing programmes and strengthen the capacity of agencies to create new ones while focusing on advocacy its raison d’etre.

High on the AWAG agenda is the matter of the elimination of the practice of fake vets which is common particularly in rural areas. The frequent complaints from tourists about the poor state of animal welfare in Jamaica is a matter that requires urgent attention, so is the need for more pounds for stray animals, funding for spay and neuter programme and more animal foster homes to deal with the surge in displaced domestic animals as apartment living becomes more prevalent. One overarching need is public education which requires collaboration between all stakeholders public and private.

Special guest at the launch was ‘Dr’ Teddy Barks, Jamaica’s first therapy dog. The dog works out of the Bustamante Children’s Hospital. He was raised and trained by Joey Brown, curator of the Hope Zoo.